Inverlochy Castle
Fort William

Built in 1863, Inverlochy Castle is a striking lakeside property just three miles outside the small Highland's town of Fort William. Set in sprawling grounds in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy has an intimate atmosphere which makes it feel more like a large house than a grand castle, despite its exterior turrets. At its heart, you’ll find a double-height hall with a sweeping staircase, a crackling fire and sofas to listen to live harp performances in the evenings. Our favourite room in the house is the Drawing Room, which is a nice spot for Afternoon Tea overlooking the countryside and private lake. Modern British cuisine is served at the restaurant; do be aware that their dress code requires men to wear a jacket and tie when dining.

Rooms are traditional and filled with four-poster beds, flowery eiderdowns, thick patterned drapes and antique-style Chaise Longues. However amongst this antiquity, modern technology has not been forgotten. You'll find flat-screen mirrored televisions, internet access and DVD players. The country setting is perfect for those looking to get stuck into outdoor activities; options are endless, choose from white-water rafting to snowboarding on the Nevis mountain range, abseiling, archery, wakeboarding, hunting, stalking and fishing. For children there are board games, organized woodland walks, a trip on the Hogwart's express, horse-riding and Playstations for rainy days. Inverlochy Castle offers airport transfers in its own Rolls Royce Phantom should you wish to arrive in style.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus